How to Use Radiator Stop Leak?
Seeing puddles of coolant under your car is never a good thing. Whether it’s coming from your radiator, water pumps, heater core, freeze plug, or another part of your cooling system, it can cause major trouble for your vehicle if you don’t check it quickly.
Fortunately, there is a way to stop the flow of leaks without an expensive, urgent repair. Radiator stop leaks are designed to stop the flow of liquid out of your cooling system without blocking those narrow passageways for proper circulation of coolant.
Available in a variety of liquid, pellet, & powder forms, the stop-leak product is designed to be poured into your radiator, where they circulate to seal leaks with your coolant.
Additionally, most provide lubrication protection for your water pump and seals. Stop leaks can be a very simple and inexpensive way to avoid major headaches; Here are some of our favorites.
How Does Radiator Stop Leak Work?
A pool of green or other colored water just under the front of your car is a sure sign that you have coolants leaks, & there is a good chance of a radiator leak.
Sometimes, these leaks occur in conjunction with an overheating issue, & other times, they are not. Replacing your radiator can sometimes be a costly project.
Thankfully, there are Radiator Stop Leak products to help seal some leaks to the radiator. Does the radiator leak stop work? Find out today how this product works and whether you can use it to solve your leaking problems.
How Does It Work?
Each type of radiator stop leak works a little differently. At the same time, the end result is the same, filler particles, ceramic fibers, and sodium silicate attempt to seal by hardening and solidifying where the leak is occurring. Another area that can help stop leaks in your car’s heater core.
The heater core is basically a small radiator inside the car’s cabin, which radiates engine heat for heat in winter. Heater cores can withstand leaks similar to a radiator and are much more labor-intensive to repair.
Fillers, whether ceramic, metal or organic, circulate through your radiator and are forced into gaps in your radiator piping when the system is under pressure. These particles bind and form a temporary seal.
Once you flush your coolant or even top up your coolant, you can pull out enough filler to remove the seal and create another pinhole leak.
Instead, Ceramic Fibers uses a micro-sphere nanotechnology approach to create more fibrous patches in your radiator. Once heated, these fibers cure and form a semi-permanent seal.
It may not be as durables as a brand new radiator, but it can withstand flushing your coolant without breaking the seals.
Finally, sodiums silicates, also known as liquid glass, melts at about 212 to 221 degrees Fahrenheit. As liquids circulate your cooling system, it travels up to a leak in the hot part of your engine.
Once it reaches the right temperature, it melts to form a tight seal. Sodium silicate requires temperatures of up to 1,490 degrees Fahrenheit to re-melt, so it forms an extremely strong seal.
Find out how to use a radiator to stop the leak and when you can use it effectively. Some leaks cannot be effectively sealed with radiator stop leaks. In these situations, your radiator needs to be repaired or replaced to create a proper seal.
Stop Leak Vs. Radiator Repair:
It is important to understand that stop-leaks are usually only a temporary solution or a solution to a minor leak. Why is there a leak in your radiator? Stop leak additives can seal the pinhole leak in your radiator, but they can’t deal with the source of the damage.
Keep in mind old coolant can encourage corrosion inside your radiator and other parts, so it is important to service/replace/flush your cooling system at regular intervals.
All this rust and buildup will not only damage the internal passages of your radiator but can also clog your radiator completely. Most modern radiators are aluminum core with two plastic end tanks on each side.
Most failures occur when the rubber seal of the tank wears out, and antifreeze begins to leak out. On older copper/brass radiators, pinholes were very common, and a good seal was to stop the leak.
If there are any leaks, or if there is a leak in an area where the radiator cannot stop the leak, it is time for a replacement radiator. Stop by your local AutoZone to find affordable parts for a DIY repair, or choose one of our favorite installers for your radiator.
It’s also important to note that many radiator sealers and block sealers require you to complete the drain and flush all of your coolants, and add a stop leak or block seal with purified water to run for a short period of time. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly.
An improperly maintained radiator may need to be flushed before it can be sealed in any way. Sealing a single pinhole can be easy, but it can also be a sign that other areas of your radiator are damaged & may soon leak. Flushing your system, as mentioned earlier, should be a regular maintenance item.
Why Isn’t Stop Leak Working?
While a stop leak can create a reliable seal in many areas of your cooling system, there are many situations where it will not function properly.
There’s going to be a bad leak, a hose leak, a coolant reservoir tank, or a water pump not sealing between the end tanks of the radiator. If these parts have a leak, they will need to be replaced.
No amount of radiator stop leaks can protect these areas from minor or major leaks. These areas may not be sealed with stop leaks, so you will need to replace a part to restore a proper seal. No amount of radiator stop leaks can protect these areas from minor or major leaks.
Another common problem with a radiator stopping leaking is when it creates a complete seal in your radiator. This side effect is usually caused by overuse. Read the instructions on your radiator stop leak package carefully.
Each company uses a slightly different strength and filler material combination, so it’s only necessary to add the exact amount of stop leaks needed and make sure you read that the mixture can be added to antifreeze or requires purified water.
Using stop leaks, especially an additive that relies on fillers, is a short-term solution. Stop by AutoZone to see how to find a replacement part or more permanent sealing solution to keep your radiator operating effectively.
What Are Other Stop Leak Options Available?
Similar to Radiator Stop Leaks, there are chemicals made for other systems such as AC Stop Leaks, Head Gasket Stop Leaks, and Oil Stop Leaks products. Each of these has its limitations but can be used as short-term sealants in systems relative to them.
Like radiator stop leaks, other stop leak additives can be a good option if you need an emergency seal and can help you avoid replacing a major component for a while, but remember, it is likely That the component will need replacement over time.
Benefits of Radiator Stop Leaks:
#1. Prevent a Breakdown
When your radiator leak, it loses fluid & loses its ability to keep your engine cool. It allows excessive heat to build up, which can damage your engines. Prolonged exposures to increased temperatures will eventually lead to a breakdown.
#2. Prolong Major Repairs
If you can’t afford to replace radiators, a stop leak may be the answer. This will fill in the cracks and prevent leaks when you make arrangements to replace the radiator.
#3. Extend Life of Your Car
Older vehicles tend to leak more. There is a point when investing more in a complete radiator replacement just isn’t worth it. However, you also cannot buy a new car. Stop leak prolongs the walkable life of your car so that it can give you faithful service.
Types of Radiator Stop Leaks
#1. Powder
You will see powder stop leak that comes in different formulations and quantities. However, they all generally perform similar functions. Pour the powder into your radiator & let it work.
This option is simplest and easy to use. However, it is less effective than other solutions because you need enough powder to mix so much that it clogs your radiator.
#2. Tablets
This type of stop leak is not popular, but you will still be able to find some options in this form. There are two methods for application. The first is to put the tablet in your radiator and let them get to work.
Another option is to dissolve them in some water & then pour that mixture into your radiator. Once in your radiators, the dissolved particles will heat up and seal the cracks.
#3. Liquid
Liquid forms of stop sealant are more common and have a lower viscosity. This makes them move more easily through the radiator fluid while reducing friction. These are usually made of additives that help deter rust and thickeners from filling in leaks and reduce dirt and grime.
Other Considerations
#1. Sealing Ability
Look for dimensions of the leaks that the stop leak may contain. Some formulas are more effective & can seal larger leaks.
You need formulas that can seal the sizes of the hole in your cooling systems. Most coolants can effectively seal leaks up to .250 mm. Anything bigger, and it’s best to seek professional repair.
#2. Antifreeze and Anti-Boil Compatibility
Some stop leak is not compatible with your types of antifreeze. This formula requires you to drain the entire system before adding stop leaks. These are difficult to use and can present a risk to your engine.
#3. Frequency of Use
This is important to consider how often you need to use it and the effect it will have on your vehicle in the long run. Keep in mind that the fluid can be used multiple times before it runs out. The more leaks you have in your radiators, the harder it is to stop them all.
Radiator Stop Leak Reviews and Recommendations:
#1. K-Seal Coolant Leak Repairs
These K-Seal leak repairs provide tight seals to your cooling system quickly & efficiently. One of the bests features is that it is easy to use and can be applied to your coolant system immediately. It is capable of being paired to a hot or cold engine, saving you time.
However, to avoid injuring yourself, use extreme caution when mixing the solution with a hot engine. Another benefit of repairing a K-Seal leak is that it mixes with all types of antifreeze; hence self, you don’t have to worry about buying a specific brand for your car.
It can also be left in the cooling system or taken out if necessary. K-Seal’s formulas are designed to target holes and crevices and then permanently seal them without damaging your engine.
While this can be an excellent radiator fluid stop leak, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of. K-Seal guarantees a permanent seal, but many consumers report that they experienced some leaking again a few weeks or months after application.
These mays are dues to the size of the crack, but they should block small holes without a problem. Another problem is that it clogs easily and is a bit expensive.
#2. Bar’s Leaks Radiator Stop Leak Concentrate
Seal leaks in your radiator with this concentrated formula. This serves to seal small leaks in your radiators or heater core. Bar’s Leaks manufactures these products in the United States. One bottle can treat up to four gallons.
These formulas will address drips & leaks caused by regular wear and tear or aging of your systems. This concentrate works with all types & colors of antifreeze coolant and/or water. This makes it versatile & easy to use.
Concentrates formula means you only need one bottle for the regular-sized cooling system. It will work with most 6-, 8-, & 10-cylinder engines. For a 4-cylinder engine, you only need half a bottle.
Unfortunately, this concentrate is not effective in sealing large leaks or leaks that are located in seams, bolts, or other areas of the systems. It will also not protect against overheating.
#3. GUNK Aluminum Cooling System Stop Leak
This product may be called gunks, but don’t let that fool you. These effective products come from a family-owned company based in Charlotte, North Carolinas.
For more than 75 years, companies have produced high-quality automotive products. This aluminum formula prevents leakages in your cooling systems.
Once applied, it will also work to inhibit future leaks. This formulation contains a corrosion inhibitor to help preserve and prolong the life of your cooling system. It starts working soon after application, which is quite quick as compared to other products in the market.
Bests parts about this product are that there is no need to flush or drain the system before applying it. Unfortunately, the package for the product is small compared to other options on the market.
This means that if you have any leaks or vehicles you are working on, you will have to buy more. You also exigency to check the cleanliness of your systems; They need to be cleaned so that you can skip the drainage and flushing.
#4. Liqui Moly Radiator Stop Leak
Liqui Moly’s stop leaks are intended for use in passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, buses, and more. It also seals hair cracks as well as small leaks caused by impacts and porous soldering points.
This product is compatible with antifreeze & coolant water refiners and works on aluminum radiators & cooling water & heating systems, both with and without waters filters. The Liqui Moly is made in Germany and works particularly well on European vehicles.
It works as promised, and it prevents leaks as advertised. This is a great product to have if you need a quick and temporary coolant system leak repair. This is not uncommon for a product to seal a leak for several months.
There are not many drawbacks to these products. This does not solve every type of leak. You may necessity more than one bottle to prevent large holes, and this is not a permanent solution.
#5. AlumAseal Radiator Stop Leaking Powder
This radiators sealants from AlumAseal is one of the original sealants products available in the market. You add the powder to your cooling system and then wait for the formula to work.
These are compatibles with all types of antifreeze. When you use these powders, you not only seal current leaks but also create a protective barrier that will prevent future leaks and corrosion.
It will also lubricate your water pumps to further protect and extend the life of your cooling systems. Unfortunately, these powders are only effective at sealing small leaks or pin-sized pores.
You also need to be careful, as this has turned off the cooling system of some vehicles. The powder may not fully mix into the liquid to flow throughout the system, which can lead to overheating.
#6. Bar’s Leaks Liquid Aluminum Stop Leak
Bars Leak is renowned for its Stop Leak products and one of the best in its liquid aluminum Stop Leak. The liquefaction compound works great in sealing leaks, and it also conditions the engine using the bar’s leaks liquid aluminum. That’s just one step. Step two is known as the Extreme Cool Formula.
This solution stops overheating and lowers the temperatures of the waters in the radiators. Another great feature is how durable & effective this stop leak is.
It easily seals up leaks in plastic, aluminum, and metal radiators, heater cores, gaskets, and freeze plugs. Another advantage is that these stop leaks can be added to the cooling system without flushing antifreeze.
This can also be used with all types of coolants, including yellow, orange, pink, red, blue, & green silicate-based and non-silicate-based antifreeze. While the prices are a bonus, you may have to buy in bulks to get more efficient results.
Another downside is that you have to wait 20 minutes with the engine idling to make sure all cracks are properly sealed. However, as with all products described here, this is not a permanent solution and will require your vehicle to be re-treated or taken to a mechanic.
#7. Blue Magic Radiator and Block Sealer
Permanently repair and seal your radiator and prevent leaks from this liquid glass and copper-colored radiator. This is a liquid formula designed to repair and bond with your radiator material. This work in heavy-duty applications, industrial, farm, marine & automotive equipment.
To use, pour it directly into your radiators, & it will start working within five minutes. This’s durable enough to withstand up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, making it durable & long-lasting. It has no fibrous or solid material, so it won’t necessarily clog your radiators or cooling systems.
The downsides of this stop leaks product are that it is best suited for large-capacity engines. This can make it more than necessary to repair a small car radiator. It doesn’t even come out clean, which can be unattractive.
#8. Preston Radiator Complete Care Stop Leak
This patented formula will work quickly to prevent leaks in your cooling system’s radiator, heater core, or water pump. The formula is enhanced with rust inhibitors to prevent rust and to pit in the future.
This means fewer leaks in the future. This product uses a uniques formula that contains both natural & synthetic ingredients.
It is effective in sealing leaks from .020 to 0.5 inches in size. It means it can seal large leaks without interfering with the overall flow of coolants through your radiator.
Unfortunately, its claims of effectiveness may be a bit high. After all, this’s not meant specifically as a “stop leaks”; it’s more of radiators/cooling systems treatment.
#9. JB Weld Perm-O-Seal Radiator Stop Leak
JB Welds is one of the most trusted names in Radiators Stop Leak products. It is a specially formulated and finely ground compound that is non-toxic and works well in both professional mechanic shops and in DIY applications.
The formula includes corrosion inhibitors to prevent rust in the future. The smaller grind of powder particles means it will mix better with your cooling system fluids and get into small cracks and leaks.
This makes it more effective at sealing even the smallest of leaks. The formulation works up quickly and will save you money. Unfortunately, the powder can also clog your radiator once it’s poured. These can be the results of using too many powders.
These can easily happen if you find that the first vial has not sealed your leak effectively. There’s a fine balance between having the powder completely ineffective and clogging up your radiator.
#10. Blue Devil Radiator and Block Sealer
Create an airtight seal in your radiators with these permanent repairs for your radiator and/or block seals. It is safe and easy to use for the average car owner.
You would put it directly in your radiator and let it do the work. It does not contain any fibrous or solids materials that can clog and damage your radiator. Stop leaks will bond together at weak points of metal to shore up your entire cooling system.
This stop leak stands out because this expands & contracts with the heating & cooling of your engines. The downside of these stop leaks is that they can be difficult to use.
While the instructions say to pour it in, you can’t just dump it all in one go. Flow it slowly and gently so that it doesn’t accumulate too much and seal your system in the process.
FAQ: How to Use Radiator Stop Leak
What Is a Radiator Stop Leak?
A radiator stop leak is a product designed to seal small leaks in your vehicle’s cooling system. It comes in various forms, including liquid, powder, and tablets, and works by circulating through the system to block leaks without obstructing the coolant flow.
How Does a Radiator Stop Leak Work?
Radiator stop leaks use different mechanisms to seal leaks:
- Fillers: Particles such as ceramic fibers or metal circulate with the coolant and are forced into the gaps under pressure, binding to form a temporary seal.
- Ceramic Fibers: These fibers use nanotechnology to create fibrous patches that harden and form a semi-permanent seal.
- Sodium Silicate: Known as liquid glass, it melts at high temperatures to form a solid seal at the leak point.
When Should I Use a Radiator Stop Leak?
Use a radiator stop leak when you notice small leaks in your radiator or heater core, and you need a quick, temporary solution. It’s useful for avoiding immediate expensive repairs but should not be relied upon for large or significant leaks.
How Do I Apply a Radiator Stop Leak?
- Powder: Pour directly into the radiator.
- Tablets: Dissolve in water or place directly in the radiator.
- Liquid: Pour into the radiator following the product instructions. Always ensure the engine is cool before application to avoid injury and read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly.
Can Radiator Stop Leak Fix All Types of Leaks?
No, radiator stop leaks are most effective for small cracks and pinhole leaks in the radiator or heater core. They are not suitable for large leaks, hose leaks, or leaks in areas like the coolant reservoir or water pump.
Are Radiator Stop Leaks a Permanent Solution?
No, radiator stop leaks are typically a temporary fix. They can extend the time before needing a professional repair or replacement but should not be seen as a long-term solution.
What Are the Risks of Using a Radiator Stop Leak?
Overuse of radiator stop leak can lead to clogging of the cooling system. It’s essential to use the correct amount specified by the product instructions to avoid creating blockages that could lead to overheating.
How Often Can I Use Radiator Stop Leak?
Radiator stop leak should be used sparingly. Frequent use indicates a larger underlying issue with your cooling system that needs professional attention. It’s generally recommended to use it as an emergency fix rather than a regular maintenance item.
What Should I Do If the Radiator Stop Leak Doesn’t Work?
If the stop leak does not seal the leak, it’s time to seek professional repair or replace the damaged component. Persistent leaks suggest a more significant problem that cannot be addressed by stop leak products.
Can Radiator Stop Leak Harm My Engine?
When used correctly and in the proper amount, radiator stop leak should not harm your engine. However, improper use, such as overuse, can lead to clogging and potential damage. Always follow the product instructions carefully.
What Are Some Recommended Radiator Stop Leak Products?
- K-Seal Coolant Leak Repair
- Bar’s Leaks Radiator Stop Leak Concentrate
- GUNK Aluminum Cooling System Stop Leak
- Liqui Moly Radiator Stop Leak
- AlumAseal Radiator Stop Leak Powder
- Bar’s Leaks Liquid Aluminum Stop Leak
- Blue Magic Radiator and Block Sealer
- Prestone Radiator Complete Care Stop Leak
- JB Weld Perm-O-Seal Radiator Stop Leak
- Blue Devil Radiator and Block Sealer
